Speaking of the scandal that saw him leave his position six months ago, Lethlean described it as “a really distressing and remorseful time for me”.

“In the end, I had a number of conversations with the leadership at the AFL and I think we all agreed that, based on my actions, it was appropriate for me to leave the AFL. I couldn’t execute my role and my job in leading football nationally, based on the situation,” he said.

“I’m quite at ease … and that was what was needed at the time. I own that decision and I own my actions.

“I’m remorseful for it, but I’ve got to move on now and I’m extremely excited by the opportunity to be back in the industry.”

There were whispers in October Lethlean was being sounded out to take up the then-vacant CEO position at Carlton – a club Neds have at $51.00 to claim this year’s premiership.

However, Lethlean refused to be drawn on that issue.

"I understand there's been a public discussion on that topic, but I'm general manager of football at St Kilda Football Club now and I'm not going to discuss management roles and processes at other clubs," he said.

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